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Community Development Manager Jobs in California

Community Development Director

Delano, CA ยท On-site

$13K - $16K/mo

... Community Development Department that provides current and advance planning; plan checking ... Prepares City Council agenda items for review and approval by the City Manager. Negotiates with ...

Our established Community Development group is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support development projects for various private and public clients. In this role, you will contribute to the ...

Intern (Community Development)

Millbrae, CA ยท On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

The ability to manage multiple assignments and work independently * An interest in planning, community development, and local government Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as ...

Our established Community Development group is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support development projects for various private and public clients. In this role, you will contribute to the ...

Showing results 21-40

Community Development Manager information

See California salary details

$35K

$75.2K

$116.9K

How much do community development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development manager in California is $75,175.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a community development manager?

A community development manager oversees local events and establishes relationships with community members to promote company visibility and economic growth. Specific job duties vary, depending on the company and industry. In business, you cultivate positive partnerships with local companies, community groups, and government agencies through hosting informational events or attending regional forums. Other responsibilities include analyzing the financial impact your company has on the community and determines whether or not the area provides a healthy market for your company. You research and evaluate the needs of the designated market region and discover how the company can offer products or services to fulfill that need, or find areas to develop and open new businesses. Non-profit organizations utilize community development managers to spread the message of their cause and promote participation or solicit donations.

What does a community development manager do?

A Community Development Manager is responsible for building and maintaining relationships within communities to foster growth, engagement, and positive change. They often work with local organizations, government agencies, and residents to identify community needs and implement projects or programs that address those needs. Their duties may include organizing events, securing funding, managing volunteers, and evaluating the effectiveness of community initiatives. The goal is to enhance the well-being and quality of life for community members while supporting sustainable development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a community development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Manager, you need expertise in project management, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach, often supported by a degree in public administration, urban planning, or a related field. Familiarity with grant writing software, CRM systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, cultural sensitivity, and leadership skills help build trust and foster productive partnerships. These capabilities are crucial for developing impactful programs, securing resources, and strengthening community relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by community development managers when working with diverse stakeholder groups?

Community Development Managers often work with stakeholders who have varied interests, backgrounds, and priorities. A common challenge is balancing these different perspectives to create programs that are inclusive and effective for the entire community. Navigating conflicting interests requires strong communication, facilitation, and negotiation skills, as well as patience and adaptability. Building trust and fostering collaboration among stakeholders is essential for successful project outcomes and long-term community engagement.

What is the difference between Community Development Manager vs Community Outreach Coordinator?

AspectCommunity Development ManagerCommunity Outreach Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences, public administration, or related field; experience in community planningBachelor's degree often preferred; experience in communication or outreach roles
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; project management focusCommunity events, public meetings, and outreach activities
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, urban developmentNonprofits, community organizations, government programs
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for managerial roles in community developmentSeeking roles focused on community engagement and outreach

The Community Development Manager typically oversees community projects, manages teams, and develops strategic plans, requiring more experience and higher-level credentials. In contrast, the Community Outreach Coordinator focuses on engaging with the community through events and communication efforts, often with less managerial responsibility. Both roles are vital in community-focused organizations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Community Development jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Community Development Manager jobs in California?

For Community Development Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Community Development Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Development Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Community Development Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Community Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Community Development Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,175 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Assistant Community Development Director

City of San Bruno, CA

San Bruno, CA โ€ข On-site

$225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Ready for a career opportunity that comes with a 36-hour workweek - four workdays, and a three-day weekend every week? If you're a qualified candidate looking for your next opportunity, we encourage you to apply and see what a four-day workweek could mean for you!


The City of San Bruno Assistant Community Development Director classification's current maximum salary is $204,853 with approved increases in January 2027 (maximum salary will increase to $214,583) and in January 2028 (maximum salary will increase to $225,849).


Introduction

The City of San Bruno is seeking a visionary and experienced Assistant Community Development Director to help lead and shape the future of our community. This opportunity is ideal for a motivated professional with a passion for providing community development services to the public. Under the general direction of the Community Development Director, this position plays a key role in advancing strategic initiatives working with the Director to lead building, code compliance, planning and housing services.

About the Community Development Department

The Community Development Department has nineteen budgeted positions and is responsible for planning the physical development of the community and ensuring that new development and modifications to existing development are completed in compliance with City and State laws. The Department provides technical information to residents, business owners, developers, and commissions regarding local codes, ordinances, and other related issues. We are dedicated to fostering a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking community for residents and businesses alike.

The Department has four divisions:

  • Administration: Responsible for department wide management of the budget, personnel, employee engagement, technology, and major initiatives including City Council priorities for Elevate San Bruno, expanding online permitting, and leading the City Hall remodel. The department has a technology fund that provides ample resources to incorporate new technology into our service delivery.
  • Building: Managed by the Chief Building Official, this division is responsible for processing building permit applications, managing consultant plan review, performing inspections, and providing customer service at the counter.
  • Code Compliance: Managed by the Code Compliance Manager, this division is newly transferred to Community Development after being in the Police Department for several years. This division is responsible for code enforcement efforts to support all applicable departments in the organization.
  • Planning (and Housing): Managed by the Planning Manager, this division handles current planning including the Tanforan project, long range planning including Environmental Justice Element, and Housing Element implementation, supports the Planning Commission, and provides customer service at the counter. The General Plan maintenance fund provides ample resources to fund long-range planning efforts for the community.

The Department team has a strong culture of collaboration, teamwork and positive attitudes, and takes pride in seeing the impact our work makes on the community. This is based on feedback from anonymous polling from department staff in June 2026.

About the Role

As the Assistant Community Development Director, you will support and lead a variety of key functions within the department. This role requires a dynamic leader with extensive professional background in municipal development, land use planning, housing, building and/or code compliance services. You will oversee departmental operations, manage staff, coordinate inter-departmental initiatives, and provide expert guidance on planning projects and policy matters.

Key responsibilities can include:

  • Managing and supervising the daily operations and personnel of the department, including a new citywide program based budget process and ongoing team-building and employee engagement efforts
  • Preparing and presenting reports, policies, and long-range planning initiatives to City Council, Planning Commission, and public forums
  • Overseeing land use, housing, and development projects in compliance with CEQA and zoning laws, including the major redevelopment of the Tanforan mall site
  • Overseeing building permitting, inspection and enforcement functions
  • Expanding use of technology including expansions and improvements to online permitting, refresh of the department website, and improving data management
  • Supporting the Community Development Director in strategic and operational matters


How to Succeed in this Role

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  • Strong knowledge of best practices for administration and budgeting
  • Strong knowledge of urban planning, housing policy, building plan review and inspection programs, and municipal codes
  • Proven leadership in managing complex projects, interdisciplinary teams, and staff at different career stages
  • Effective communication and collaboration with elected officials, community members, and external agencies
  • The ability to interpret laws, analyze data, and recommend innovative solutions
  • Commitment to service excellence, transparency, and continuous improvement


Minimum Qualifications

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in land-use planning, urban planning, or a closely related field, or equivalent certifications.
  • Four (4) years of progressively responsible municipal government experience, including at least two (2) years in a role similar to Planning Manager, Chief Building Official, or Code Compliance Manager in the City of San Bruno.

Licenses & Requirements

  • Possession of a valid California Driver's License and satisfactory driving record
  • Willingness to attend evening meetings and travel for conferences and workshops

Other Desirable Skills

  • Track record of strategic thinking and problem solving
  • Demonstrated ability to lead organizational change
  • Familiarity with General Plan implementation, Housing Element implementation, CEQA, development permitting and inspections
  • Advanced project and budget management skills

Total Compensation

The City is proud to offer a competitive total compensation package with the following highlights:

  • Wellness-focused schedule and paid time off (PTO) program
    • 4-day workweek (Monday through Thursday, 9-hours per day) with a 3-day weekend every week.
    • Approximately 80 to 184 hours of vacation per year, dependent on years of service.
    • 96 hours of sick leave per year and over 10 paid holidays.
    • 80 hours of management leave.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plan with choice of HMO or PPO program for employee and eligible dependents.
  • Defined benefit retirement programthrough CalPERS (Classic-2.7%@55 or New/PEPRA-2.0%@62). More information is available at CalPERS.
  • Deferred Compensation Section 457b plan and City match
  • Education assistance including tuition reimbursement
  • Employee home loan assistance program

For a listing of employee benefits, please see the Mid-Management column in our benefits summary linked here. This position is a represented position.

How to Apply

Applications will be submitted online at BambooHR. Applications must be received by 5:00 pm on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible before the recruitment is closed. In-person panel interviews are tentatively scheduled for Thursday September 24, 2026.

The City of San Bruno utilizes a merit-based selection system. Such a system is competitive and based on broad outreach efforts and equal opportunity for qualified applicants to take part in a process designed to determine the qualifications, fitness and ability of competitors to perform duties of the position.

Equal Opportunity Statement
The City of San Bruno is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and as such does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, sex, gender, religion, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or national origin in its employment actions, decisions, policies and practices. If you require special accommodations, please contact us to discuss your needs.